Reconfigurable furniture systems and methods of configuring the use of a space

Abstract

A number of reconfigurable furniture systems and methods of their use are disclosed. An example of a reconfigurable furniture system can comprise a guide, a carriage, and a furniture module. The carriage can be configured to couple with the guide such that the carriage can translate along a primary axis at least partially defined by the guide. The furniture module can be rotatably coupled to the carriage about an axis of rotation. The carriage and furniture module can be configured such that the axis of rotation can translate relative to the furniture module. In other examples, the furniture module can comprise a chassis or a rotary coupling. Other varieties of reconfigurable furniture system and methods of their use are disclosed herein.

Description

[0001] Reconfigurable furniture systems and methods of configuring the use of a space

[0002] FIELD

[0003] This invention relates to reconfigurable furniture systems, methods of their use, and methods of reconfiguring the use and utility of a space.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Spaces and buildings conventionally have a dedicated utility, such as a living space or a work space. The utility of a space can be determined by the original design and form of the space, and the configuration of the furniture and layout of the space. Reconfiguring a space for a different utility can require expense, labour, and time.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] According to one example there is provided a reconfigurable furniture system, the system comprising: a guide, a carriage, and a furniture module; wherein: the carriage can be configured to couple with the guide such that the carriage can translate along a primary axis at least partially defined by the guide, the furniture module can be rotatably coupled to the carriage about an axis of rotation, and the carriage and furniture module can be configured such that the axis of rotation can translate relative to the furniture module.

[0008] According to a further example there is provided a method of configuring a reconfigurable furniture system, the method comprising in any order: translating a carriage along a primary axis at least partially defined by a guide, wherein the carriage is coupled to the guide, translating a furniture module relative to the carriage such that an axis of rotation translates relative to the furniture module, wherein the furniture module is rotatably coupled to the carriage about the axis of rotation, and rotating the furniture module around the axis of rotation According to yet another example there is provided a movable furniture module comprising a rotary coupling configured to translate relative to the furniture module and couple with a guide so as to allow: translation of the rotary coupling with respect to a guide; translation of the rotary coupling with respect to the movable furniture module; and rotation of the movable furniture module about the rotary coupling.

[0009] Examples of reconfigurable furniture systems comprising a guide and such a movable furniture module can be implemented.

[0010] According to yet another example there is provided a method of configuring a movable furniture module within a space comprising a guide, the method comprising in any order: rotating the movable furniture module about an axis of rotation passing through the furniture module and guide; ii. translating the axis of rotation with respect to the furniture module; and moving the movable furniture module so that the axis of rotation moves along the guide.

[0011] According to yet another example there is provided a reconfigurable furniture assembly comprising: a guide secured to a wall of a building, and a movable furniture module comprising a rotary coupling that can translate relative to the guide and is configured to allow the movable furniture module to rotate relative to the guide.

[0012] According to yet another example there is provided a movable furniture module comprising: a coupling configured to engage with a guide to allow movement relative the guide; a drive unit configured to drive the movable furniture module relative to the guide; and a sensor configured to detect a force applied to the movable furniture module and control the drive unit to drive the movable furniture module in the direction of applied force. According to yet another example there is provided a movable furniture module comprising: a coupling configured to engage with a guide to allow movement relative the guide; and a sensor configured to detect a position and orientation of the movable furniture module relative to the guide.

[0013] Examples may be implemented according to any one of dependent claims which are hereby incorporated into the description as though individually recited.

[0014] It is acknowledged that the terms "comprise", "comprises" and "comprising" may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, these terms are intended to have an inclusive meaning - i.e., they will be taken to mean an inclusion of the listed components which the use directly references, and possibly also of other non-specified components or elements.

[0015] Reference to any document in this specification does not constitute an admission that it is prior art, validly combinable with other documents or that it forms part of the common general knowledge.

[0016] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings which are incorporated in and constitute part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description of embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention, in which:

[0018] Figure 1A shows an example of a reconfigurable furniture system.

[0019] Figures IB - ID show different examples of guides and carriages of a reconfigurable furniture system.

[0020] Figures IE - 1G show examples of furniture modules and guides. Figure 2 shows an example of a method of configuring a reconfigurable furniture system.

[0021] Figure 3 shows an example of a carriage and guide of a reconfigurable furniture system.

[0022] Figure 4 shows an example of a bearing and bearing house.

[0023] Figure 5A shows a further example of a bearing house.

[0024] Figures 5B and 5C show exploded examples of bearing houses.

[0025] Figure 6 shows an example of a furniture module comprising a rotatable coupling.

[0026] Figure 7 shows an example of a method of configuring a movable furniture module.

[0027] Figures 8A - 8C show examples of floor interfaces.

[0028] Figure 9A and 9B show an example of a chassis.

[0029] Figure 10 shows an example of a furniture module comprising a frame and functional modes.

[0030] Figures 11A and 11B show examples of a carriage and guide with a power supply cable.

[0031] Figure 12 shows a functional block diagram of an example of a reconfigurable furniture system comprising a locking mechanism.

[0032] Figure 13 shows a functional block diagram of an example of a reconfigurable furniture system comprising a drive unit. Figure 14 shows a furniture system employing multiple furniture modules.

[0033] Figures 15A to 15H show multiple living modes within a space.

[0034] Figures 16A to 161 show a range of functional elements that may be employed in furniture modules.

[0035] Figures 17 to 20 show floor interfaces with enhanced manoeuvrability.

[0036] Figures 21A to 21F illustrate how furniture modules may be moved.

[0037] Figure 22 shows a rear view of an example electrical wiring configuration for a furniture module.

[0038] Figure 23 shows a top perspective view of the furniture module shown in Figure 22.

[0039] Figure 24 shows an enlarged view of the circled part of Figure 23.

[0040] Figure 25 shows a front perspective view of the furniture module shown in Figure 22.

[0041] Figure 26 shows a side view of the furniture module shown in Figure

[0042] 22.

[0043] Figure 27 shows a schematic view of an example furniture module with multiple functional modules connected.

[0044] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Figure 1 shows an example of a dynamically reconfigurable furniture system 100. The furniture system 100 comprises at least one guide 110 mounted on a surface of a space 190 or building, such as a living or working space. Examples of spaces 190 can include homes such as apartments and dedicated work spaces such as offices, but as described further herein, the utilisation of the space can be varied depending on the configuration of furniture system 100. The furniture system 100 can further comprise a carriage 120 configured to couple with the guide 110 such that the carriage 120 can translate along a primary axis 112 at least partially defined by the guide 110. For example, the guide 100 can be a rail and the carriage 120 can be configured to couple to the rail.

[0046] The furniture system 100 further comprises a furniture module 130. The term "furniture module" encompasses modules that are movable to redefine a space and can have functional elements on one or multiple sides (i.e. one or more of front, back, left, right or other sides for non-rectangular footprints). A typical furniture module extends from the ground to the ceiling, although it may not in high ceiling rooms. Typically, a furniture module will be at least 240 cm in height. Typically it may be between 240 to 350cm in height. The furniture module must also have a depth sufficient to accommodate functional modules and utilities. Typically the furniture module should be at least 30 cm deep. Typically it will be between 30cm to 100cm deep. Typically the furniture module should be at least 100 cm wide. Typically it will be between 100cm to 220cm wide. The furniture module will thus have significant mass requiring an appropriately engineered support system. Typically a furniture module may weigh more than 40 Kg. Typically it may be between 40Kg to 1000 Kg in weight.

[0047] In this example, the furniture module 130 is rotatably coupled to the carriage 120 about an axis of rotation 122. The carriage 120 and furniture module 130 are further configured such that the axis of rotation 122 can translate relative to the furniture module 130 (indicated by axis 1120 in Figure 1). These three degrees of spatial freedom allow the furniture module 130 to occupy many different positions and configurations within the space 190, and to change the utilisation of space 190 by exposing different functional modes as described herein. It is to be appreciated that in other examples further components may be included. For example, a base or top plate may be interposed between the carriage and / or furniture module or may be part of one or the other.

[0048] For instance, Figure 2 shows an example method 200 of configuring a reconfigurable furniture system 100 as depicted in Figure 1. The carriage 120 that is coupled to guide 110 can be translated along a primary axis 112 that is at least partially defined by the guide 110 at 210, thereby translating the furniture module 130 that is rotatably coupled to the carriage 120. The furniture module 130, which is rotatably coupled to the carriage 120 about an axis of rotation 122, is itself translated relative to the carriage 120 at 220 such that the axis of rotation 122 translates relative to the furniture module 130. The furniture module 130 is then rotated around the axis of rotation at 122. A functional mode can be optionally exposed or hidden at 240. It should be understood that the individual actions comprising example method 200 depicted in Figure 2 can be performed in any order.

[0049] Figures 21A to 21G illustrate how furniture module 130 may be moved. In Figure 21A furniture module 130 may translate along rail 110 to one end 130' or the other 130" by carriage 120 travelling in track 110.

[0050] Figure 21B illustrates how carriage 120 can translate with respect to rail 110 to either translate furniture module 130 with respect to rail 110 or, as shown, to translate rail 110 through to positions 110' and 110" with respect to furniture module 130.

[0051] Figure 21C illustrates furniture module 130 in a first position on rail being rotatable about carriage 120 through position 130' to 130". Furniture module 130 may then be moved along rail 110 to position 130'" and being rotatable there about carriage 120 through position 130"" to 130'"". Figure 21D illustrates furniture module 130 rotating about carriage 120 when it is positioned in the middle of the furniture module 130.

[0052] Figure 21E illustrates furniture module 130 translating transverse to rail 110 by carriage 120 sliding along a track of furniture module 130 to position 130'.

[0053] Figure 21F illustrates translation of furniture module 130 to positions 130' and 130" by carriage 120 travelling along track 110.

[0054] In some examples, the guide 110 can comprise a rail that is positioned on a surface of the living space. For example, the rail 110 can be positioned on a wall of the space 190, a ceiling of the space 190, a floor of the space 190 or suspended above the floor of a space. For example, Figure IB illustrates a guide 110 in the form of a rail that is disposed on a ceiling of the space, with a corresponding carriage 120. Figure IE depicts an example of a furniture module 130 that is coupled to a guide 110 disposed on a ceiling, also showing the axis of rotation 122 about which the furniture module 130 rotates and the axis 112 that the furniture module 130 translates. Similarly, Figure 1C shows a guide 110 in the form of a rail that is disposed on a floor with accompanying carriage 120. Figure IF shows an example of a furniture module 130 that is coupled to a guide 110 positioned on a floor of the space. Figure ID depicts a guide 110 in the form of a rail that is disposed on a wall of a space with an accompanying carriage 120, and Figure 1G shows an example of a furniture module 130 that is coupled to a guide 110 positioned on a wall of the space. As discussed in more detail herein, in some examples, the furniture system 100 can comprise multiple guides 110 to which the furniture module 130 is coupled.

[0055] In some examples where the guide 110 comprises a rail, the rail 110 can be countersunk. This can depend on the requirements of the space 190, the position or orientation of the rail 110, and the carriage 120. In other examples, the rail 110 can be surface mounted and may not be countersunk. In still further examples, the rail 110 can have portions that are countersunk and portions that are not. The rail 110 can include an adjustment mechanism to adjust the angle or orientation of the rail 110 with respect to the space 190 to ensure the primary axis 122 is level during installation or after it has been installed. The rail 110 can further be retrofitted to an existing space or can be integrated into the space when associated building is being constructed.

[0056] The example furniture system 100 depicted in Figure 1 comprises single guide 110. In other examples, a reconfigurable furniture system 100 can comprise a plurality of guides 110. In some examples, the multiple guides 110 can be positioned at different heights within the space. For example, the furniture system 100 can comprise one guide 110 mounted on a wall of a space 190 and one guide 110 mounted on a ceiling of the space 190, with a single furniture module 130 coupling to both guides 110. In other examples, the furniture system 100 can comprise multiple guides 110 that are positioned at the same height (e.g. multiple guides 110 positioned on a ceiling of the space.) The furniture system 100 can further comprise a single carriage 120 and / or furniture module 130 coupled to the plurality of guides, or a plurality of carriages 120 and / or furniture modules 130, as described herein. In examples of furniture systems 100 comprising a plurality of guides 110, the plurality of guides 110 can be substantially parallel, and the plurality of guides 110 can define substantially parallel axes 112 that the carriages 120 or furniture modules 130 couple to and translate along. In other examples, furniture system 100 can comprise a plurality of guides 110 that intersect with one another. This can allow the carriage 120 or furniture module 120 to translate along different axes to allow for further flexibility in the configuration of the furniture module 130 within space 190. For example, at least two guides 110 of the plurality can define different (e.g. orthogonal) primary axes 112.

[0057] Figure 3 depicts one example of a carriage 120. The carriage 120 is configured to couple with the guide 110 such that the carriage 120 can translate along a primary axis 112 at least partially defined by the guide 110. For instance, in examples of furniture systems 100 where the guide 110 comprises a rail, the portion of the carriage 120 that couples to the rail 110 can have a complimentary profile, and can comprise ball bearings or other forms of slide bearings. The exact form of the carriage 120 can depend at least partially on the nature of the guide 110 used in the furniture system 100. In this example, a second carriage 120' is also coupled to a second guide 110' that is parallel to first guide 110. The second guide 110' is positioned on a floor of the space, at a different height to the first guide 110 that is positioned on a wall of the space.

[0058] In some examples, the carriage 120 can comprise a journal 1241 that defines an axis of rotation 122 about which the furniture module 130 is configured to rotate. For example, Figure 3 depicts an example of a carriage 120 that comprises a journal 1241 in the form of a pole that defines an axis of rotation 122 and is configured to act as a journal for a complementary bearing incorporated into furniture module 130. The complementary bearing of the furniture module 130 therefore couples to the journal 1241 of the carriage 120 so that the furniture module 130 is rotatably coupled to the carriage 120 about an axis of rotation 122. It will be appreciated that in other examples journal 1241 may not be required.

[0059] Figure 4 shows a further example of a carriage 120. In this example, the carriage 120 can comprise a bearing 124 that defines an axis of rotation 122 about which the furniture module 130 is configured to rotate. In some examples the bearing 124 can comprise a journal bearing that receives a simple journal extending from the furniture module 130. In other examples, the bearing 124 can be more sophisticated, and can comprise a rotatable coupling that couples to the furniture module 130 and allows rotation about the carriage 120. For example, the bearing 124 can comprise an angular contact bearing or a slew ring. Both types of bearings 124 can allow for rotation of the furniture module 130 and can be positioned on an underside of carriage 120 so as to couple to an underside of the furniture module 130 (for examples where guide 110 runs along a floor of space 190), or can be positioned on a topside of 120 carriage so as to couple to the top of furniture module 130 (for examples where guide 110 runs along a ceiling of space 190 or is otherwise suspended above a floor).

[0060] The carriage 120 can further comprise a bearing housing 126 configured to house the bearing 124, as shown in Figure 4. In some examples, the bearing housing 126 and furniture module 130 can be configured to allow for relative translation between the furniture module 130 and the axis of rotation 122 defined by the bearing 124. For example, Figure 5A depicts an example of a bearing housing 126 that comprises a second carriage 1200 configured to couple to and translate along a second guide 1100 of the furniture module 130. For instance, the furniture module 130 can comprise a raised or countersunk rail as a second guide 1100 and the second carriage 1200 of the bearing housing 126 can couple to the raised or countersunk rail. This can allow for the furniture module 130 to translate relative to the bearing housing 126 so as to allow relative translation between furniture module 130 and axis of rotation 122. Figures 5B and 5C show exploded views of examples of bearing housings 126 and bearings 124, with the bearing housing 126 defining a second carriage 1200. Figure 5B shows an example of a bearing housing 126 that is configured to couple to a furniture module 130 from the top, with the bearing housing 126 comprising a second carriage 1200 comprising pillow block 1260. Similarly, Figure 5C shows an example of a bearing housing 126 that is configured to couple to a furniture module 130 from the bottom.

[0061] Incorporating the second guide 1100 into the furniture module 130 can reduce the footprint and overall size of the bearing housing 126 in some examples, as the length of the second guide 1100 (which can ultimately limit and determine the extent of the relative translation between the furniture module 130 and axis of rotation 122) extends across the furniture module 130. In some examples, the second guide 1100 of the furniture module 130 can comprise a pillow block to allow for bearing housing 126 to translate along the second guide 1100.

[0062] In other examples, the arrangement between second guide 1100 and second carriage 1200 may be swapped so that bearing housing 126 comprises a second guide 1100, while the furniture module 130 comprises a second carriage 1200 configured to couple to and translate along the second guide 1100. The size and footprint of the bearing housing 126 may be larger in this configuration, which can increase stability and rigidity of the bearing housing 126. The second guide 1100 can also comprise a pillow block in this configuration.

[0063] Some examples discussed above comprise a separate carriage 120 that couples to the guide 110 and furniture module 130, with the bearing 124 and bearing housing 126 being integrated with or coupled to carriage 120 (as in Figures 4 and 5A). In these configurations, different furniture modules 130 can be interchanged in the furniture system 100 by coupling and uncoupling the furniture module 130 to the bearing housing 126 of the carriage 120. However, in other examples of furniture systems 100, the furniture system 100 can be configured such that the furniture module 130 itself comprises a bearing 124 (and optional bearing housing 126) and carriage 120, with the bearing 124 / bearing housing 126 being configured to couple to the carriage 120 or guide 110 in a way that allows relative translation between the axis of rotation 122 and the furniture module 130.

[0064] For example, Figure 6 shows an example of a furniture module 130 that comprises a rotary coupling 128. The rotary coupling 128 can comprise a bearing 124 and bearing housing 126 that are integrated into the furniture module 130 itself. The rotary coupling 128 can be configured to allow for rotation of the movable furniture module 130 about the rotary coupling 128 and can be configured to translate relative to the furniture module 130 (e.g. along secondary guide 1100 in Figure 6, in the direction 1120). The rotary coupling 128 can further be configured to couple with a guide 110 so as to allow translation of the rotary coupling 128 (and therefore furniture module 130) with respect to a guide 110. In this way, the furniture module 130 itself can comprise all the necessary components (e.g. bearing components and carriage components) to allow the furniture module 130 to couple to the guide 110 in a modular fashion and to allow rotation and translation of the furniture module 130 along guide 110. Guides 110 can then be installed in space 190 and the user can purchase furniture modules 130 to suit, and can couple the furniture modules 130 directly to the existing guides 110 via the rotary coupling 128. Furniture system 100 for use with such furniture modules 130 can then comprise one or more guides 110 (e.g. rails as described above) configured to be secured to a building, and one or more of the furniture modules 130 can be configured to couple to the guides 110.

[0065] For example, one or more guides 110 can be secured to a wall of a building, such as the inner wall of a space 190. A furniture module 130 can comprise a rotary coupling 128 (as described above) that can translate relative to the guide 110, and is configured to allow the movable furniture module 130 to rotate relative to the guide 110. The rotary coupling 128 may be configured to allow for relative translation between the movable furniture module 130. In other examples, the rotary coupling 128 may be a comparatively simple rotary coupling 128 that does not provide for relative rotation between the furniture module 130 and the axis of rotation 122 defined by rotary coupling 128. The furniture module 130 can be supported directly from the guide 110 (e.g. supported by the rotary coupling 128 or portion that couples to the guide 110), or may include a floor interface 140 to support the weight of the furniture module 130. In these examples, the guide 110 along which the rotary coupling 128 translates may partially support a weight of the movable furniture module 130, or may simply act to limit the axis along which the furniture module 130 can translate. Floor interfaces 140 for furniture modules are described in more detail herein. Figure 7 depicts an example method of configuring such a movable furniture module 130 within a space 190 comprising a guide 110. Movable furniture module 130 is rotated about an axis of rotation 122 passing through the furniture module 130 and the guide 110 at 710. For example, the furniture module 130 can comprise a rotary coupling 128 (as described above) that allows for rotation of the furniture module 130. The axis of rotation 122 is then translated with respect to the furniture module 130 at 720. For example, the rotary coupling 128 can allow for relative translation between the furniture module 130 and axis of rotation 122 as discussed above. The movable furniture module 130 is then moved so that the axis of rotation 122 moves along the guide 110 at 730. In other words, the furniture module 130 translates so that the axis of rotation 122 translates along an axis defined by the guide 110. It should be noted that the individual actions of the method depicted in Figure 7 can be performed in any order, and do not need to be taken in any particular sequence.

[0066] In some examples, the furniture module 130 may be configured to rotate with respect to guide 110, but may not be configured to allow for relative rotation between the furniture module 130 and axis of rotation 122. For example, a reconfigurable furniture system 100 can comprise a guide 110 and a furniture module 130. The furniture module 130 can be movable and can comprise a rotary coupling 128 that can translate relative to the guide 110. The rotary coupling 128 can be configured to allow the movable furniture module 130 to rotate relative to the guide 110.

[0067] In some examples of furniture system 100, the carriage 120 and guide 110 can partially or completely support a weight of the furniture module 130. In other examples, the furniture module 130 or system 100 can comprise a floor interface 140 that at least partially supports the weight of the furniture module 130. Figures 8A to 8C show examples of floor interfaces 140. In some examples, the floor interface 140 can comprise one or more wheels (e.g. castors 142) coupled to the furniture module 130 and / or carriage 120 that support the weight of the furniture module 130 on the ground and allow the carriage 120 to translate along the primary axis defined by the guide 110. This can reduce the stress placed on the components of the guide 110 (such as e.g. the components that anchor the guide 110 to a surface of the space 190) and can simplify the engineering of the furniture system 100. The nature of floor interface 140 can depend on the arrangement and size of guide 110, carriage 120, and furniture module 130. Specific floor interfaces 140 are discussed in more detail herein.

[0068] In some examples, the floor interface 140 can comprise a castor 142 or a plurality of castors 142. Castors 142 can be advantageous as they can rotate in-plane and allow the furniture module 130 to move in a number of different directions on the floor of the space 190. This can be helpful if the direction of movement of the furniture module 130 needs to be changed, such as when the furniture module 130 is rotating. For example, Figure 8C shows a floor interface 140 comprising a castor 142. The castor 142 is able to rotate about axis of rotation 144 such that castor 142 can roll along a surface. Castor 142 can further rotate about axis of rotation 146 such that the direction of the castor 142 can be adjusted. This degree of rotation can be advantageous if the castor 142 needs to trace out a curve or non-linear path.

[0069] In still further examples, the floor interface 140 can comprise a plurality of castors 142 that are configured to be unidirectional. In other words, although the castors 142 can freely rotate in-plane to adjust the direction of movement (e.g. about axis 146 when the furniture module 130 is rotated about axis of rotation 122), the plurality of castors 142 can be configured to all point in the same direction as they rotate.

[0070] In some examples, the floor interface 140 can be configured to dynamically adjust to differences in floor height, such as floor areas that are partially carpeted, portions of floor that are covered by rugs, etc. For example, Figures 8A and 8B show an example of a floor interface 140 that includes a wheel (e.g. a castor 142) and a suspension that allows for some degree of play in the height of the axis of rotation of the wheel. The castor 142 can rotate about axis of rotation 148 defined in the floor interface 140, and includes a suspension 149 that can compress or extend to adjust to variations in floor height (such as e.g. transitioning from hardwood to carpet, differences in height caused by rugs, or items inadvertently left on the floor). This can be useful if the floor surface used with furniture module 130 or furniture system 100 is non-uniform. In still further examples, the furniture module 130 can comprise a smart floor interface 140. The smart floor interface 140 can be configured to dynamically adjust to differences in floor height.

[0071] Figures 17 to 20 show floor interfaces with enhanced manoeuvrability. Figure 17 shows a floor interface 300 under a furniture module 301. Floor interface 300 includes a plurality of omnidirectional rollers, in this example balls 302, mounted within housings with low rotational friction in all directions. This may be achieved by providing a plurality of ball bearings between the balls and the housings.

[0072] Figure 18 shows an alternative design in which floor interfaces 304 and 305 are rotatably mounted to furniture module 303. A plurality of omnidirectional balls 306 (only one indicated) are provided in each module. As shown in Figure 19 each floor interface 304 and 305 is rotatable with respect to furniture module 303. In this way the furniture module can rotate with respect to a floor interface without requiring floor engaging elements (balls 306) to move; lessening resistance to movement and better maintaining the centre of rotation. As shown in Figure 20 the furniture module can move from 303 to 303' with pure rotation of floor interface 304 with respect to furniture module 303 and a combination of rotation of floor interface module 305 with respect to furniture module 303 and rotation of balls 306. It will be appreciated that balls 306 may be replaced with castors, although castors may not track as well as balls as they re-orient. Whilst the floor interface may be a passive, reactive unit it may also be driven manually or by a powered system. In a manual implementation a crank arm could drive floor engaging elements or, in a powered system, the floor engaging elements may be driven by an electric motor (or other powered drive) and / or the rotation of the floor interface unit with respect to a furniture module may be driven by an electric motor (or other powered drive).

[0073] In examples of furniture systems 100 that comprise a carriage 120, in some examples, the carriage 120 of the system 100 can comprise a chassis 150, and the furniture module 130 can be configured to couple to the chassis 150. Figures 9A and 9B show examples of chassis 150. For example, the chassis 150 can be a platform, such as a base plate or top plate as shown in Figure 9A, and the furniture module 150 can couple to the chassis. In this example, bearing housing 126 is configured to couple to an overhead guide, so the chassis 150 is configured as a top plate. In examples where the bearing housing 126 is configured to couple to a guide that runs on a floor, the chassis 150 may be configured as a base plate. The chassis 150 can define a platform that supports or provides a bodywork or structural framework for the furniture module 130, to support the furniture module 130 and / or provide structural rigidity to furniture module 130, while also allowing for the use of modular furniture modules 130 that can be interchanged and coupled to the chassis 150. Furniture modules 130 can be swapped in and out to customise the utility of the furniture system 100 for different needs and use cases. Figure 9B shows a partially exploded view of the chassis shown in Figure 9A, with the chassis 150 separated from the bearing housing 126. This also shows a second carriage 1200 that translates along a second guide 1100 formed on chassis 150, so that bearing housing 126 can translate with respect to chassis 150. This allows the translation of an axis of rotation 122 (defined by the bearing housing 126 in this instance) with respect to the furniture module 130, once the furniture module 130 is coupled to the chassis 150. In still further examples, the furniture module 130 can comprise a frame 132 configured to receive modular functional modes 134. Figure 10 shows an exploded view of a furniture module 130 comprising frame 132. In this example, the frame 132 can define compartments of a modular or specific size that are configured to receive modular modes 134. For example, the frame 132 can define slots that are configured to receive certain fasteners, with each modular functional mode 134 having fasteners that are configured to couple with the slots defined by frame 132.

[0074] In some examples, the furniture module 130 can be configured to couple to a chassis 150 (examples of which are shown in Figures 9A and 9B). In other words, the furniture module 130 can comprise a frame 132 configured to receive modular modes 134, and the frame 132 can be configured to couple to a chassis 150 as described above. This can increase the utility or adaptability of the furniture module 130 and overall furniture system 100. For example, different frames 132 of furniture modules 130 can allow for different configurations of modular functional modes 134. At the same time, a chassis 150 can be configured for different frames 132 to couple to the cassis 150, thereby opening up an additional degree of adjustability where the functional modules 134 of the furniture module 130 can change for a given frame 132, and the frame 132 itself can be interchanged.

[0075] However, it should be understood that the use of a modular frame 132 doesn't necessarily require a chassis 150. In other examples, the furniture module 130 can comprise a modular frame 132 that couples to a carriage 120. In other examples, the furniture module 130 may comprise a modular frame 132 and rotary coupling 128 (as described above) configured to couple to a guide 110 in the space 190. This means that a single furniture module 130 can still offer modularity for functional modes 134 even though the system does not comprise a chassis 150, with the furniture module 130 itself comprising rotary coupling 128. Functional modes 134 are generally specific furnishings or utilities that can function from the furniture module 130 to allow the furniture module 130 to provide different kinds of function and utility to the space 190. For example, the functional modes 134 can be related to sleep, work, entertainment, dining, and storage. For instance, the functional modes 134 can comprise furniture (e.g. seating and beds) or appliances (e.g. televisions or kitchen appliances.) Other modes 134 also be used, and the furniture system 100 can be configured to accommodate any number of different modes 134 to change the utilisation of the space 190. In some examples of furniture modules 130, the swapping or changing of functional modes 134 does not change the overall dimensions of the furniture module 130, but changes the functionality provided by the furniture module 130.

[0076] In some examples, the functional modes 134 can include retractable or folding furniture such as beds, shelving, desks, tables, seats or seating, or furniture used for storage. In other examples, the functional modes 134 can comprise a partition or other form of sliding surface that can extend or retract from the furniture module 130 to open or close areas or separations between the furniture system 100 and the space 190. In further examples, the functional modes 134 can alternatively or additionally comprise utility use points such as electrical points, plumbing, utilities associated with kitchens or laundry, or utilities associated with bathrooms. For example, the furniture module 130 and functional modes 134 can be connected to plumbing. The plumbing can be routed through carriage 120 in examples of furniture systems 100 that comprise carriages 120. The plumbing can comprise at least one drain configured to drain water from the furniture module 130. In other examples, the plumbing can comprise at least one water supply configured to supply water to the furniture module 130.

[0077] Similarly, the furniture module 130 can be connected to an electricity supply, and the furniture module 130 can comprise at least one power point configured to supply electricity to an appliance. The appliance can form part of a functional mode 134, and the electricity supply can comprise at least one supply cable routed through carriage 120. For example, Figure 11A shows an example of a guide 110 and carriage 120 that is configured to house a supply cable 500 for supplying power to the furniture module 130. Power is routed through the cable 500 and bearing housing 126 to a coupled furniture module 130. The bearing housing 126 in this example comprises pillow blocks 1260 to allow relative translation between the bearing housing 126 and furniture module 150. Figure 11B shows a front-on view of the carriage 120 and guide 110 depicted in Figure 11A.

[0078] The furniture module 130 can comprise a number of different functional sides or faces 136, as shown in Figure 10. For example, if the furniture module 130 is generally in the shape of a cuboid, then the furniture module 130 can have six substantial faces, and any number of these can be functional (e.g. can present or offer operable modes 134 for the user to interact with or utilise). The furniture module 130 can comprise at least one functional side 136, although the total number of functional sides 136 will depend at least in part on the shape of the furniture module 130.

[0079] In some examples, the furniture module 130 can comprise at least two functional sides 136. Including at least two functional sides 136 can allow for the furniture module 130 and furniture system 100 to significantly change the utilisation of the space 190. For example, the at least two functional sides 136 can have different modes 134, such as dining and sleeping. Reconfiguring the furniture system 100 by translating and / or rotating the furniture module 130 can change the utilisation of different areas of the space 190 relating to the modes 134. For instance, the furniture system 100 can be configured in such a way that the dining modes are presented and are available to a user in a first area / location of the space 190, while the sleeping modes are stowed away (e.g. flush against a wall or generally inaccessible) or are accessible in a second place. After the user has finished dining and is ready to rest, the user can reconfigure the configurable furniture system 100 (by e.g. translating and / or rotating the furniture module 130 with respect to the guide 110, and / or by translating the axis of rotation 112 with respect to the furniture module 130) such that the functional side 136 associated with sleeping is available to the user in the first area / location of the space 190, while the functional side 136 associated with dining is stowed away or in a second area / location of the space. In this way, the same area of the space 190 (i.e. the first area / location) can be utilised for different purposes by reconfiguring the configurable furniture system 100.

[0080] Of course, in other examples of the furniture system 100, the furniture module 130 can comprise more than two functional sides 136. The number of functional sides 136 can depend at least on the size and shape of the furniture module 130, and the layout of the associated space. For instance, furniture modules 130 that are wider than they are tall, such as table-shaped furniture modules 130, may comprise multiple functional sides and a top face that is functionalised with a mode 134, while taller and narrower rectangular furniture modules 130 may include two functional sides 136 on their major faces. The number and arrangement of functional sides 136 of the furniture module 130 can depend on the application of the furniture module 130 and the configurable furniture system 100.

[0081] In some examples of furniture system 100, the furniture system 100 can comprise a plurality of furniture modules 130. The furniture system may further comprise a plurality of carriages 120 or chassis 150 to which the furniture modules 130 are coupled. Alternatively or additionally, at least some of the furniture modules 130 may comprise a rotary coupling 128 that can couple to at least one guide 110 of the furniture system 100. In some examples of furniture system 100 comprising a plurality of furniture modules 130, at least some of the furniture modules 130 can be configured to couple to one another. For instance, the example reconfigurable furniture system 100 depicted in Figure 1 can comprise a second furniture module configured to translate along the primary axis 112, with the first furniture module and second furniture module being configured to couple together. For example, the plurality of furniture modules 130 can have coupling features that allow the furniture modules 130 to couple together. The coupling features can be integrated onto the carriage 120, chassis 150, or rotary coupling 128 of the furniture module 130, or can be integrated onto a face 136 of the furniture module 130. The coupling features can allow some degree of play, relative motion, or articulation between coupled furniture modules 130 (e.g. in instances where the guide 110 may be curved, to allow the coupled furniture modules 130 to adjust to the curve more easily). In other examples, the coupling features can be configured such that coupled furniture modules 130 are locked rigidly together. For example, two furniture modules 130 can couple together to form a single rigid volume that is can be used to reconfigure space 190. The two furniture modules 130 can then be uncoupled and used separately in different areas of space 190 by translating the furniture modules 130 along guide 110. In other examples, more than two furniture modules 130 may be configured to couple together in different ways.

[0082] In some examples, the furniture system 100 can comprise one or more locking mechanisms. For example, Figure 12 shows a functional block diagram of a furniture system 100 comprising a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can comprise a primary brake 170 configured to lock the translation of the carriage 110 or chassis 150 along the primary axis 112 defined by the guide 110. In examples where the furniture module 130 comprises a rotatable coupling 128, the rotatable coupling 128 can comprise a primary brake 170 configured to lock the translation of the rotatable coupling 128 along the guide 110. For example, the primary brake 170 can comprise a clamp that locks the carriage 110, chassis 150, or rotary coupling 128 against the guide 110 via friction. The specifics of the mechanism of the primary brake 170 can depend on the configuration of the guide 110 and how translation of furniture module 130 is achieved. The brakes may be clamp-type brakes or other suitable mechanisms. The brakes may be actuated manually or by an actuator. Suitable actuators may be solenoids or motors. Where a brake is actuated by an actuator this may be via direct user control (e.g. by pressing a button). Alternatively, an automation system may actuate a brake. An automation system may control an actuator via a wired control line. Alternatively, an automation system may control an actuator wirelessly.

[0083] The furniture system 100 can further comprise a rotary brake 172 configured to lock rotation of the furniture module 130 about the rotational axis 122 to which the furniture module 130 is coupled. In examples where the furniture module 130 comprises a rotatable coupling 128, the rotatable coupling 128 can comprise a rotary brake 172 configured to lock rotation of the movable furniture module 130 about the rotary coupling 128. For example, in instances when the carriage 120 or rotary coupling 128 comprise a bearing 124 and bearing housing 126, the bearing 124 or bearing housing 126 can comprise the rotary brake 172. Examples of rotary brakes 172 can include a dog clutch with multiple points of engagement that cooperates with the bearing 124 / bearing housing 126 to lock rotation of the bearing 124, or a rotating bolt mechanism to pin the bearing 124 to the housing 126.

[0084] In still further examples, the furniture system 100 can comprise a secondary brake 174 configured to lock translation of the axis of rotation 122 with respect to the furniture module 130 (e.g. in the direction of 1120 in Figures 1 and 10). For example, in instances where the furniture module 130 comprises a second guide 1100 and the bearing housing 126 comprises a second carriage 1200 configured to couple to and translate along the second guide 1100, the second carriage 1200 can comprise the secondary brake 174 to lock the position of the second carriage 1200 with respect to the second guide 1100 via friction. The secondary brake 174 can also be implemented in the second carriage 1200 in other examples where the bearing housing 126 comprises a second guide 1100 and the furniture module 130 comprises a second carriage 1200 configured to couple to and translate along the second guide 1100.

[0085] In examples of reconfigurable furniture systems 100 that comprise a primary brake 170, a rotary brake 172, or a secondary brake 174 in any combination, the primary brake 170, rotary brake 172, or secondary brake 174 can be configured to be used independently of the other brakes in the system 100. For example, a furniture system 100 can comprise all three brakes 170, 172, and 174, and all three brakes can be used independently of the state of the other brakes to independently lock different degrees of freedom of the furniture module 130. This can be useful if the e.g. the furniture module 130 is at a suitable position along the guide 110, but the user still wants to allow rotation of the furniture module 130. As a further example, locking the primary brake 170 and rotary brake 172 while leaving the secondary brake 174 unlocked allows the furniture module 130 to translate along a second axis, with the angle between the second axis and the primary axis (i.e. the guide 110) defined by the rotational angle of the furniture module 130.

[0086] In some examples of reconfigurable furniture system 100, the furniture system 100 can comprise a drive unit 180 configured to drive the movable furniture module 130 relative to the guide 110. Figure 13 depicts a functional block diagram of a reconfigurable furniture system 100 comprising a drive unit 180. The furniture module 130 comprises a drive unit 180 comprising an actuator 182 that can drive carriage 120, chassis 150, or rotary coupling 128 to translate along the primary axis 112 defined by the guide 110. For example, the actuator 182 may power the floor interface 140 or can engage the guide 110 directly (using e.g. a chain and sprocket or rack and pinion arrangement). In still further examples, the actuator 182 may additionally or alternatively be configured to assist the translation of furniture module 130 with respect to the axis of rotation 122 or the rotation of furniture module 130 with respect to the carriage 120 or guide 110. The furniture module 130 can further comprise a sensor 184 that is configured to detect a force applied to the movable furniture module 130 and control the drive unit 180 to drive the movable furniture module 130 in the direction of the applied force. This allows the drive unit 180 to be configured as a powered assist that can assist a user in reconfiguring the furniture system 100 within space 190. The drive unit 180 can translate the carriage 110 along the primary axis 112, translate the axis of rotation 122 with respect to the furniture module 130, or can rotate the furniture module 130 about the axis of rotation 122. For example, the user can push the furniture module 130 and the sensor 184, and on detecting the force applied by the user, can engage the drive unit 180 to drive the furniture module 130 in the direction that the user is pushing. In some examples, the sensor 184 can also or alternatively be configured to detect a position and orientation of the movable furniture module 130 relative to the guide 110. For example, the movable furniture module 130 and sensor 184 can comprise an encoder to determine the position and orientation of the furniture module 130.

[0087] In still further examples, the furniture system 100 can additionally or alternatively comprise a controller 186 configured to control actuator 182, and a user interface 188 configured to interface with the controller 186. The user can then use user interface 186 to manually or automatically control the actuator 182 to assist with the movement of the furniture module 130 within the space 190. For example, the user can jog the furniture module 130 along the guide 110 or can rotate the furniture module 130 by degrees about axis of rotation 122 via the actuator 182. In examples where the furniture system 100 comprises one or more brakes (e.g. primary brake 170, rotary brake 172, or secondary brake 174), the user interface 186 can be configured to engage or disengage the brake to enable or restrict movement of the furniture module 130. This can be done automatically or manually by a user. In still further examples, the user interface 186 can be configured to receive user preferences for one or more stop points for a furniture module 130. For example, a user can define one or more preferences for the configuration of the furniture system 100, and can then use user interface 186 to automatically reconfigure the furniture system 100 into the preferred configuration via the actuator 182. This can involve the use of sensor 184 to determine the current configuration of the furniture module 130. Furthermore, the furniture system 100 can further comprise a proximity sensor 188 that is configured to sense a proximity between the furniture module 130 and an object within space 190. The proximity sensor 188 can be used to prevent actuation of actuator 182 if a potential collision is detected, or if the desired movement profile is deemed to be unsafe. To this end, the user interface 186 can comprise safety controls that help to ensure that actuator 182 is only engaged when safe to do so.

[0088] Figure 14 illustrates a number of furniture modules of different modes of operation used together. Furniture module frame 202 is pivotally mounted to carriage 203 that slides along rail 204. Module frame 202 is thus able to slide along wall 205 and pivot about carriage 203. Module frame 201 is pivotally connected to carriage 206 that can slide along suspended track 207. Carriage 206 can also translate with respect to frame 201 by sliding along track 208 on frame 201.

[0089] A wide range of furniture modules may be employed in systems as described above with different functional elements provided on each side. Some of the configurable options for each side are show in Figures 16A to 161 as follows:

[0090] Figure 16A - a fold out bed 400.

[0091] Figure 16B - a fold out work desk 401 and cupboard 402.

[0092] Figure 16C - a shelving unit 403.

[0093] Figure 16D - a television cavity 404 with electrical power supply and draws 405. T1

[0094] Figure 16E - a fold out work desk 406.

[0095] Figure 16F - fold out bench seats 407 and 408, fold out table 409 and shelves 410.

[0096] Figure 16G - fold out bench seat 411 and side desks 412 and 413.

[0097] Figure 16H - fold out exercise bench 414 and cupboards 415.

[0098] Figure 161 - white board 416 and cupboards 417.

[0099] Furniture modules based on the options above may arranged and substituted as required over time to allow spaces to be dynamically defined that suit the needs of users at that time. Furniture modules may be designed to be easily interchanged to allow "plug and play" modules that dynamically meet the current user needs. It will be appreciated that with an appropriate track layout the furniture modules described can move to virtually any position within a room and present either side in any desired position. This provides great flexibility as to room configuration and space utilisation.

[0100] Figures 15A to 15H illustrate how furniture modules may be configured to achieve multiple living modes within a space. Figure 15A illustrates a "living mode" in which a bed furniture module 501 has its bed in its stored state and a TV module 502 against a wall. In Figure 15B the bed 503 of the bed module is deployed for sleeping. In an alternative "sleeping mode" bed module 501 has been rotated and translated to the position shown in Figure 15G to provide an enclosed sleeping area with the TV module 502 rotated and translated into back to back configuration.

[0101] Figure 15C shows furniture module 501 rotated to expose its other side and Figure 15D shows a desk 504 deployed in a "work mode". Figure 15E shows module 502 rotated to expose its other side with a table 505 and bench seats 506 and 507 deployed in a "dining mode". Figure 15F illustrates that modules may be deployed at any desired orientation with module 502 disposed at an angle to the wall. Figure 15H shows an arrangement of modules 501 and 502 defining a series of distinct spaces.

[0102] Figures 22 to 26 show an example electrical wiring configuration for a furniture module 600. An electrical supply cable 601 supplies power from a primary power supply (e.g. a 230V or 115V AC supply from a switchboard or similar) to furniture module 600. A cable chain 602 folds and unfolds electrical supply cable 601 as the furniture module 600 moves along a rail. It will be appreciated that a variety of solutions may be provided to enable a cable accommodate translation such as a recoil mechanism, telescopic coupling, wireless power transfer, use of a ribbon cable etc. The power supply cable 601 may pass through a rotatable coupling 603 (typically where there is a limited range of rotation and the cable may not be overrotated). Alternatively rotatable coupling 603 may include slip rings or a wireless power transfer system allowing power to pass from one side to the other with unrestricted rotational freedom. Where rotational coupling 603 can translate with respect to furniture module 600 a further cable chain 604 may be provided to hold and deliver the electrical supply.

[0103] Referring to Figure 22 it will be seen that in this example supply cable 605 supplies electrical power from supply cable 601 to power distribution units 606 and 607. Distribution units 606 and 607 include electrical circuits to provide multiple required power supplies. The multiple required power supplies may be AC and / or DC power supplies. Typically these may be mains (115V or 230V AC supplies) or low voltage DC supplies (e.g. 5V, 12V or 24V). Distribution units 606 and 607 can include a plurality of connectors 608 and 609 (only one indicated in each case) enabling simple plug in connection of functional elements mounted in the furniture module 600. Data cables and / or control cables may also be incorporated with power supply cables or provisioned in parallel. Water supply and drainage may likewise be provisioned utilising conduits permitting lateral displacement (such as telescopic or concertina pipes) and / or rotational couplings.

[0104] It should be appreciated that only one distribution unit is required per furniture module 600 which may be mounted at the top, bottom or in between. The number and placement will depend upon the application. It should also be appreciated that the power supply cable may supply power to the top or bottom of the furniture module. Further, one furniture module may supply power to another module via a similar connection.

[0105] Figures 25 and 26 show an overhead lamp assembly with a low voltage power supply cable 611 having plug 612 plugged in to a complementary connector 608.

[0106] Figure 27 shows a schematic witing diagram for a furniture module 600 in which power supply cable 601 supplies power from a switchboard through slip rings 612 to power supply cable 604. A plug 613 electrically connected to power supply cable 604 can be coupled to plug 614 to supply mains AC power to power distribution unit 606. A low power DC supply (12V DC in this case) is supplied by line 616, through plugs 613 and 614 to cable 615 and via slip rings 612 and cable 617 to power supply plug 618. This allows electrical circuits and actuators of braking mechanisms to be powered from power distribution unit 606. Any other relevant electronics and actuators may also be powered in this way.

[0107] Power distribution unit 606 provides AC mains voltage to plug 619 and low voltage DC power supplies to plugs 620 to 622. It will be appreciated that the power supplies may be AC or DC and of any voltage required for a particular application. However, it will often be convenient to supply mains AC, 5V DC, 12V DC and 24V DC. In this example power outlet 624 may simply be connected via a power supply cable with a plug 627 which is plugged into socket 619. USB ports 623 may be connected to a cable with a plug 628 that is plugged into socket 621 supplying 5V DC. In this example display 625 is connected by a cable with plug 629 and is plugged into socket 620 supplying a 12V DC. It will be seen that a wide range of devices may be simply connected in a plug and play manner to power distribution unit 606. It will also be appreciated that wired communication connections could also be provided in this way.

[0108] It will be appreciated that additional modules may be employed and / or existing modules substituted for other modules to allow any desired combination of interchangeable modes. This allows a space to be easily reconfigured for different residential, commercial or other needs simply by changing modules and / or their configuration.

[0109] The above examples show possible configurations in a simple rectangular floorplan. It will be appreciated that the furniture modules may be employed in a wide range of geometries and be accommodated within, or interrelate to, the architecture of a space. The modules may interact with fixed assets of a space linking the architecture to the furniture system and being integrated with the spatial form and the architecture. Some parts of the system, or parts of a mode, may stay fixed in space when at rest, whereas other parts of the system can dynamically move. For example, part of a mode could be inside a wall, or form part of a kitchen, until it is moved, where it not only transforms the space, but it uses the form needed to provide a kitchen to offer other functions in a space so as to provide multi-purpose forms.

[0110] In summary, the dynamically reconfigurable furniture systems 100 disclosed herein facilitates the creation and re-definition of spatial environments by means of rotatable furniture systems and can enable limited spaces 190 to feel much larger than they actually are by introducing a varied and configurable functionality to the space 190. The space 190 can meet different functional needs in the short term (e.g. over the course of a day) and in the long term (e.g. as a person's lifestyle changes over time and as the person's family grows or changes size.) The modularity of the furniture system 100 can allow for a high level of customisation that can flexibly accommodate different needs of users, while recognising that a user's needs will change over time. The furniture systems 100 can reduce resources used in construction by maximising the function of smaller area footprints. The furniture systems 100 can allow daily use of space 190 that commonly occurs in different physically defined rooms on a floor plan to occur in the same space 190, where the space 190 changes and adapts to meet the needs of the user or occupant.

[0111] The building and construction of the furniture system 100 can be largely done offsite, as the components can be modular. The furniture system 100 can allow for the space 190 to be converted quickly for new purposes given the modular nature of system 100. All of the necessary spatial structures can be provided without those spatial structures being permanent. Furthermore, the space 190 can be designed and built without needing to know the exact intended use of the space 190 at the time of design. The intended use of the space 190 can be determined later, or at any stage during the lifetime of the associated building.

[0112] While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of the examples thereof, and while the examples have been described in detail, it is not the intention of the Applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and method, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departure from the spirit or scope of the Applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A reconfigurable furniture system, the system comprising: a guide, a carriage, and a furniture module; wherein: the carriage is configured to couple with the guide such that the carriage can translate along a primary axis at least partially defined by the guide, the furniture module is rotatably coupled to the carriage about an axis of rotation, and the carriage and furniture module are configured such that the axis of rotation can translate relative to the furniture module.

2. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the guide comprises a rail.

3. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the rail is positioned on a wall of a space.

4. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the rail is positioned on a ceiling of a space or is suspended above.

5. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the rail is positioned on a floor of the space.

6. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the rail is countersunk.

7. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the rail is surface mounted.

8. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the system comprises a plurality of guides.

9. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of guides are substantially parallel.

10. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 8, wherein at least two guides intersect.

11. The reconfigurable furniture system any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein at least two guides define different primary axes.

12. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the carriage is configured to couple to the plurality of guides such that the carriage can translate between at least two areas within a space or room to change the spatial form.

13. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the carriage comprises a bearing defining the axis of rotation, and the furniture module is coupled to the bearing.

14. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 13, wherein the carriage comprises a bearing housing configured to house the bearing.

15. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 14, wherein: the furniture module comprises a second guide, and the bearing housing comprises a second carriage configured to couple to and translate along the second guide16. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 14, wherein: the bearing housing comprises a second guide, and the furniture module comprises a second carriage configured to couple to and translate along the second guide17. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the second guide comprises a pillow block.

18. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the bearing comprises an angular contact bearing.

19. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the bearing comprises a slew ring.

20. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 19 further comprising a floor interface.

21. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 20, wherein the floor interface comprises at least one wheel.

22. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 21, wherein the at least one wheel comprises a castor.

23. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 22, wherein the floor interface comprises a plurality of castors.

24. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the floor interface comprises a unidirectional floor interface.

25. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the floor interface is configured to adapt to variations in height of the floor.

26. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the carriage comprises a chassis, and the furniture module is configured to couple to the chassis.

27. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the furniture module comprises a frame configured to receive modular modes.

28. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the furniture module comprises at least one functional side.

29. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the furniture module comprises at least two functional sides.

30. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the reconfigurable furniture system further comprises a second furniture module configured to translate along the primary axis, and the first furniture module and second furniture module are configured to couple together.

31. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the reconfigurable furniture system comprises a power assist configured to assist a user in moving the furniture module.

32. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 31, wherein the power assist is configured to translate the carriage along the primary axis.

33. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 31 or claim 32, wherein the power assist is configured to translate the axis of rotation with respect to the furniture module.

34. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the power assist is configured to rotate the furniture module about the axis of rotation.

35. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein the reconfigurable furniture system comprises a brake configured to lock translation of the carriage along the primary axis.

36. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the reconfigurable furniture system comprises a brake configured to lock rotation of the furniture module about the rotational axis.

37. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 36, wherein the brake configured to lock rotation of the furniture module comprises a dog clutch.

38. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 36, wherein the brake configured to lock rotation of the furniture module comprises a rotating bolt mechanism.

39. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein the reconfigurable furniture system comprises a brake configured to lock translation of the axis of rotation with respect to the furniture module.

40. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 39, wherein the furniture module is connected to plumbing.

41. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 40, wherein the plumbing is routed through the carriage.

42. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 40 or claim 41, wherein the plumbing comprises at least one drain configured to drain water from the furniture module.

43. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the plumbing comprises at least one water supply configured to supply water to the furniture module.

44. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 43, wherein the furniture module is connected to an electricity supply.

45. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 44, wherein the furniture module comprises at least one power point configured to supply electricity to an appliance.

46. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 44 or claim 45, wherein the electricity supply comprises at least one supply cable routed through the carriage.

47. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 44 to 46 wherein the power supply is routed through a rotatable coupling.

48. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 47 wherein the power supply includes slip rings.

49. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 47 wherein the power supply includes a cable that passes through a rotatable coupling.

50. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 44 to 49 including a cable chain configured to accommodate translation.

51. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 44 to 50 including one or more power distribution units configured to supply power to devices with different power requirements.

52. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 51 wherein one or more power distribution units include a plurality of connectors configured to couple with complementary connectors of functional elements mounted to the system.

53. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 51 wherein one or more actuator, controller or user interface is powered by the one or more power distribution units.

54. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 47 to 53 incorporating communication or control cables.

55. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 47 to 49 incorporating communication or control cables routed through a rotatable coupling.

56. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 47 to 49 incorporating a wireless power transfer system across a rotatable coupling.

57. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 1 to 56, wherein the reconfigurable furniture system comprises an actuator, a controller configured to control the actuator, and a user interface configured to interface with the controller.

58. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 57, wherein the user interface is configured to engage or disengage a brake to enable or restrict movement of the furniture module.

59. The reconfigurable furniture system of claim 57 or claim 58, wherein the user interface is configured to receive user preferences for one or more furniture module stop points.

60. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 57 to 59, wherein the user interface comprises safety controls.

61. The reconfigurable furniture system of any one of claims 57 to 60, wherein the system further comprises a proximity sensor configured to sense a proximity between the furniture module and an object.

62. A method of configuring a reconfigurable furniture system, the method comprising in any order: translating a carriage along a primary axis at least partially defined by a guide, wherein the carriage is coupled to the guide, translating a furniture module relative to the carriage such that an axis of rotation translates relative to the furniture module, wherein the furniture module is rotatably coupled to the carriage about the axis of rotation, and rotating the furniture module around the axis of rotation63. A movable furniture module comprising a rotary coupling configured to translate relative to the furniture module and couple with a guide so as to allow:i. translation of the rotary coupling with respect to a guide; ii. translation of the rotary coupling with respect to the movable furniture module; and ill. rotation of the movable furniture module about the rotary coupling.

64. A reconfigurable furniture system comprising i. one or more guides configured to be secured to a building, and ii. one or more movable furniture modules as claimed in claim 63.

65. A method of configuring a movable furniture module within a space comprising a guide, the method comprising in any order: i. rotating the movable furniture module about an axis of rotation passing through the furniture module and guide; ii. translating the axis of rotation with respect to the furniture module; and ill. moving the movable furniture module so that the axis of rotation moves along the guide.

66. A reconfigurable furniture assembly comprising: i. a guide secured to a wall of a building, and ii. a movable furniture module comprising a rotary coupling that can translate relative to the guide and is configured to allow the movable furniture module to rotate relative to the guide.

67. A movable furniture module comprising: i. a coupling configured to engage with a guide to allow movement relative to the guide; ii. a drive unit configured to drive the movable furniture module relative to the guide; andiii. a sensor configured to detect a force applied to the movable furniture module and control the drive unit to drive the movable furniture module in the direction of applied force.

68. A movable furniture module comprising: i. a coupling configured to engage with a guide to allow movement relative the guide; and ii. a sensor configured to detect a position and orientation of the movable furniture module relative to the guide.

Images